10. Paper Lion (1968)

Stuart Miller Productions

Based on George Plimpton's story forSports Illustratedand his ensuing best-selling book,Paper Liontells the story of how a 36-year-old Plimpton (played by Alan Alda) joins the Detroit Lions as a third string quarterback, and relates his trials and errors through training camp while attempting to keep his journalist identity a secret. Ultimately, his exploits culminate in him playing in a live scrimmage before thousands of paying fans.

While many claim the book is better, the movie is still outstanding, largely on the strength of Alda's portrayal of Plimpton and the beautiful Lauren Hutton. Despite its dated action, the movie should appeal tofootball fansthanks to the numerous Detroit Lions of the time who played themselves. The movie helped catapult Lions' tackle Alex Karras (Blazing Saddles) into acting, and also featured appearances by Frank Gifford and the immortal Vince Lombardi.

Memorable quote:"You try the AFL?"-Vince Lombardi, insulting the supposedly weaker league when compared to the NFL, in which his Packers played.